Thousands of people were treated to a day of festive entertainment in Richmond on November 21st to mark the switching on of the town’s Christmas lights.
Activities took place throughout the day and throughout the town, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display on Richmond Green.
Festivities began at lunchtime with a Christmas market on Hill Rise selling locally produced and sustainably sourced products.
Later in the afternoon the famous Band of the Irish Guards played a selection of Christmas tunes at Richmond Riverside before leading a parade to the main stage in George Street, which, by then was a hive of festive activity involving all sections of the Richmond community.
The entertainment included children from St Richard’s School, a corporate choir of local workers, the Youth Jazz Band, Harlequins rugby players, Santa, elves, street performers, costume characters, Richmond Theatre panto stars and Paddington.
Among the VIPs were Mayor Nancy Baldwin and Council Leader Gareth Roberts dressed as a Stormtrooper.
Following the lights switch on, the crowds adjourned to Richmond Green for a spectacular fireworks display.
The lights, the entertainment and the fireworks were all funded by local businesses who are members of Be Richmond (the brand ‘persona’ of Richmond BID), an alliance of businesses in Richmond town centre.
Be Richmond Manager, Ellen Storrar said:
‘As well as providing great family entertainment, the event showcased the whole town and involved all parts of the business and residential communities. Richmond is a fantastic town with something for everybody. We hope that everyone had such a good time that they will make Richmond their first choice for shopping, relaxing and entertainment this Christmas’
